Energy drinks are liquid stimulant drugs

Feb. 5, 2013

Written by

Kevin Pho

The energy drink business is booming. Sales in the U.S. have hit more than $10 billion, eclipsing categories such as iced tea or sports drinks. About 6 billion energy drinks were consumed nationwide in 2010, and it's estimated that 31 percent of teenagers drink them regularly.

But the popularity of energy drinks is leading to serious health consequences. A recent government survey estimated that the number of emergency room visits related to consuming energy drinks doubled nationally in the past four years.

It's no secret how energy drinks work: caffeine. Consider that just 2 ounces of a ...